This arrangement permits flexion and extension movements but limits rotation.

Markings of the Lumbar Vertebrae:

Thebody or centrum (Corpus vertebrae) is a large, sturdy, cylindrical mass on the anterior side of the vertebra. It articulates with the vertebral bodies above and below and is designed to withstand vertical compression. [superior view/Lateral view]

Body of the lumbar vertebra - Superior and lateral views

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Thevertebral or spinal foramen (Foramen vertebrale) is a large, triangular-shaped opening located posterior to the body. The spinal cord and several nerves pass through the foramen.

Vertebral foramen of a lumbar vertebra - Superior view

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Thevertebral or neural arch (Arcus vertebrae) is formed by the two pedicles, two laminae, and spinous process. The arch encloses the posterior portion of the vertebral foramen.

Vertebral notch of a lumbar vertebra - Superior view

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Pedicles of the vertebral arch (Pediculus arcus vertebrae) are posterior extensions from the lateral sides of the body. The two pedicles form the base of the vertebral arch (L., pediculus, a little foot; stalk). [Superior view/Lateral view]

Pedicles of the lumbar vertebra - Superior and lateral views

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Laminaeof the vertebral arch (Lamina archus vertebrae) are plates of bone that extend from the pedicles. The left and right laminae and the spinal process form the dorsal portion of the vertebral arch.

Lamina of a lumbar vertebra - Superior view

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Thespinous process (Processus spinosus) is a posterior projection from the junction of the two laminae. Its thick, broad, quadrilateral shape serves as an attachment point for ligaments and muscles that stabilize the back. [Superior view/Lateral view]

Spinous process of the lumbar vertebra - Superior and lateral view

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Thetransverse process (Processus transversus) is a long, thin, lateroposterior projection that originates near the junction of the pedicle, lamina, and superior articular process. It also serves as an attachment point for back muscles. [Superior view/Lateral view]

Thesuperior articular process (Processus articularis superior) is a superior projection near the junction of the pedicle and transverse process. The facet is concave, faces inward (medially), and articulates with the inferior articular facet on the vertebra above. [Superior view/Lateral view]

Articular processes of the lumbar vertebra - Superior and lateral view of the t

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Theinferior articular process (Processus articularis inferior) is an inferior projection from the juntion of the pedicle and lamina. The facet is convex, faces outward (laterally), and articulates with the superior articular facet on the vertebra below. [Lateral view]

Inferior articular process - Lateral view

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The intervertebral disc (Disci intervertebrales) is a thick pad of connective tissue that helps hold adjacent vertebrae together and acts as a shock absorber. It consists of an outer layer of fibrocartilage and an inner layer of gel-like substance called the nucleus pulposus.

Intervertebral disc - Lateral view

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The superior vertebral notch (Incisor vertebralis superior) is a slight indentation on the superior surface of the pedicle.